Travel and Leisure

<p>Sometimes a handbag is more than a handbag. For a lot of people out there, it’s your whole life. You keep everything in it, from your keys to your phone to your cash and credit cards. And you can’t be too careful, right?</p><p>According to <a href="https://medium.com/shanghaiist/woman-climbs-into-x-ray-machine-with-her-handbag-to-prevent-anyone-from-stealing-it-9bb3ee7f9d2d" target="_blank">Shanghaiist</a>, one woman at Dongguan East Railway Station in China took this philosophy to the thousandth degree by climbing into the train station’s cabinet baggage x-ray system because she did not want to let her handbag go through unattended.</p><p>Apparently, the woman’s bag contained quite a lot of cash, and when security guards insisted that she part with it, she did the only thing she could to fix her problem. Wherever her bag went, she went.</p><p><a href="https://www.miaopai.com/show/eGn1FVd1A-bVjl~i1voj1QOhsnfPXJ6fGNskxg__.htm" target="_blank">Security footage</a> shows the woman climbing out of the machine as a security guard laughs. Oddly enough, she had no qualms about sending off her large luggage into the machine without supervision.</p><p>Security agents warn to never go through these baggage x-ray machines due to radiation. However, cabinet x-rays only put out the equivalent of <a href="http://www.radiationanswers.org/radiation-sources-uses/security-devices.html" target="_blank">about a tenth of a day’s worth</a> of natural background radiation. Still, people should avoid climbing into these machines simply so they don’t get stuck.</p>

<p>Maya Bay, on the Thai island of Koh Phi Phi Leh, will be closed to tourists from June to September this year as authorities try to mend years of environmental damage.</p><p>According to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2018/feb/14/thailand-maya-bay-the-beach-movie-close-to-tourists-leonardo-dicaprio" target="_blank">the <em>Guardian</em></a>, Maya Bay receives up to 5,000 visitors a day, with most tourists arriving by boat from Phuket or Koh Phi Phi. Much of that tourism is reportedly inspired by the 2000 film, “The Beach,” starring Leonardo DiCaprio.</p><img alt="Maya Bay, Andaman Sea,Thailand "src="http://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1518712384/maya-bay-thailand-beach-closed-TOOMANYPPL0218.jpg?itok=9rgvm2d7"><p>As an environmentalist himself, we assume Leo would be very disappointed by this news.</p><p>The movie, oddly enough, is about an American backpacker who travels to Thailand to find something “real” — a paradise to connect with. A perfect beach, if you will.</p><p>However, the actual beach is not perfect. Thon Thamrongnawasawat, deputy dean of the faculty of fisheries at Kasetsart University in Bangkok, told the <em>Guardian</em> that 80 percent of the coral reefs have been destroyed by construction, boat anchors, and plastic waste.</p><p>Thamrongnawasawat said that the “ideal solution” would be for the bay to be closed permanently. However, the three-month closure, during the beach’s off season, will help.</p><p>Thailand’s economy is fairly reliant on tourism, which accounts for <a href="http://www.traveldailymedia.com/247254/tourism-accounts-for-18-of-thai-gdp/" target="_blank">18 percent of its GDP</a>. </p>

<p>Disney Parks announced on Friday when <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/disney-vacations/disney-world-toy-story-land-updates" target="_blank">Toy Story Land</a>, the new themed addition at Disney's Hollywood Studios in Orlando, will open.</p><p>Toy Story Land, which promises to “transport guests into the adventurous outdoors of Andy’s backyard,” will open on June 30, according to Disney.</p><p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/disney-vacations/how-to-save-money-at-disney-parks" target="_blank">Disney Is Raising Ticket Prices — Here Are the Cheapest Times to Go</a></p><p>“With set pieces, staging, attractions and experiences Toy Story Land represents the best of Walt Disney Imagineering’s collaboration with our storytelling partners at Pixar Animation Studios,” Bob Chapek, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, <a href="http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Travel/disneys-toy-story-land-opening-date-announced/story?id=53090082" target="_blank">said Friday</a>.</p><p>Some of the highlights in the 11-acre land include a restaurant called Woody's Lunch Box, a family-friendly roller coaster called Slinky Dog Dash, and an Alien Swirling Saucers ride. The sacuers ride is based on the “toy play set that Andy got from Pizza Planet, in which Aliens are flying around in their toy flying saucers and trying to capture guests’ rocket toy vehicles with ‘The Claw’,” <a href="http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2017/09/toy-story-land-model-more-now-on-display-at-walt-disney-presents/" target="_blank">according to Disney</a>.</p><p>Disney has revealed <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/disney-vacations/disney-world-toy-story-land-updates" target="_blank">several details about what else the park will include</a>.</p>

<p>Giada De Laurentiis knows how to cut a ribbon. With her 9-year-old daughter Jade, Food Network costar Bobby Flay, and Caesars Palace President Gary Selesner, she sends a garland of herbs to the floor of her new <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-guide/las-vegas-nevada" target="_blank">Las Vegas</a> restaurant. “Welcome to Pronto, everybody. Come on in!” she says, flashing that megawatt smile. The breezy space fills with people eating, drinking, and hugging. It’s loud and cheerful, and De Laurentiis agrees it could almost be an Italian kitchen on a Sunday. “It’s controlled chaos,” she says.</p><p>The Emmy-winning chef poses for photo after photo near a large portrait in Pronto’s gift shop, showing the same polished effervescence in person. She’s had a lot of practice, having started her Food Network career in 2002, with the cookbooks and restaurants following. “They expect the show first and the food second, where from other chefs they expect food first, show second,” De Laurentiis told <em>Travel + Leisure</em>. “I have to keep that in mind whenever I’m doing things, and to make sure that it really has my signature on it — that it’s happy and it’s warm and it’s inviting.”</p><p><a href="https://www.caesars.com/caesars-palace/restaurants/pronto-by-giada" target="_blank">Pronto, inside Caesars Palace</a>, checks those boxes, especially the last one. While De Laurentiis has seen success with her eponymous restaurant just down the Strip at the <a data-ecommerce="true" href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/the-cromwell.html?label=gen173nr-1FCAEoggJCAlhYSDNYBHIFdXNfbnmIAQGYATG4AQfIAQzYAQHoAQH4AQKSAgF5qAID;sid=fdd84ab510cd8898af7f14f5edd3fab5;ucfs=1;srpvid=6f6c8f35f94600eb;srepoch=1518726124;room1=A%2CA;hpos=1;hapos=1;dest_type=city;dest_id=20079110;srfid=6409661334815ea785f4ab75f436ff5ed755933fX1;from=searchresults;highlight_room=#hotelTmpl" target="_blank">The Cromwell</a>, she wanted to create something within reach for fans who can’t afford a $60 filet, or who want to bring their kids along for a tasty meal from a T.V. star.</p><p><strong>Related: </strong><a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/attractions/giada-de-laurentiis-vegas-yoga" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis Does Yoga on the Las Vegas High Roller</a></p><p>“As much as fine dining is great, there’s a whole sector of people who are looking for a different experience, and not necessarily just a buffet,” she said. “I know buffets are still big, but this is a taste of something a little more elevated but at a much lower price point. I think that’s kinda needed here.”</p><img alt="Pronto by Giada "src="http://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1518717591/giada-pronto-vegas-desserts-GIADA0218.jpg?itok=EABmimxy"><p>With Pronto, she has Giada-fied the fast-casual concept. On <a href="https://www.giadzy.com/" target="_blank">her website</a> before the February grand opening, she gushed about drawing inspiration from “the all-day cafes of Italy where friends meet for everything from a quick bite on the go to a leisurely meal over wine.”</p><p>The "quick bite of the good life" tagline describes grab-and-go specialties and a long deli case full of sandwiches, grilled proteins, and rustic sides. Desserts range from dark chocolate mascarpone cake to the gorgeous grapefruit-Aperol sorbetto. The selection exemplifies Giada’s signature weave of Italian and Californian influences, whether you want to grab a salami-tomato focaccia at 6 a.m. or hit the wine bar for Rochioli sauvignon blanc at 10:30 p.m. And it packs flavor without being overdone.</p><p>“Vegas is known for over-the-top indulgent dishes, right? And I had these people yesterday say to me: 'You know, it’s hard to find the basics.’ Oatmeal, yogurt — the basics of basics,” De Laurentiis said (though her special oatmeal comes with Marcona almonds, Maldon sea salt, fresh orange, and a drizzle of olive oil). “Because we’re the land of indulgence here, we forget the simplicity.”</p><img alt="Pronto by Giada "src="http://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1518717591/giada-pronto-vegas-breakfast-GIADA0218.jpg?itok=LMPIUvhW"><p>That, she adds, is why Jade was the perfect muse for Pronto. With her developing palate, she gave sharp feedback on the menu and even the visual flow.</p><p>“Children don’t have a lot of patience for things that are too chaotic or complicated, or where they have to spend too much time figuring things out. So she’s been a big guide in all this,” De Laurentiis said. “She likes simple and she likes fast, but then again lots of flavor.”</p><p>Enter the muffuletta ($15), cured meats ribboned on artisan bread with aged provolone, tapenade and roasted peppers flecked with herbs. A Jade favorite is the cheese and lemon pesto panini ($14), one of many dishes showcasing De Laurentiis' beloved fruit (her lemon-ricotta cookies are three for $3 and deservedly famous). For elevated breakfast on the go, try the croissant-like cornetti laced with salty mortadella and floral and creamy California goat cheese ($6).</p><p>The most expensive thing on the main menu is $18, and many items are under $10. Chef de Cuisine Josh Grimes says no dish takes more than four minutes, with front-end finesse (aka tons of prep) ensuring the quality De Laurentiis demands.</p><p>“She’s been with us this entire journey, from menu development to picking wine glasses,” General Manager Megan Hutton says, the spotless crystal ready for 40 wines by the glass. Tuscan red blend Brancaia Ilatraia 2012 retails for $60-$70 per bottle, but Pronto’s aromatic preservation system enables 3-, 5-, or 9-ounce pours of premium wines typically unavailable in single servings.</p><p>Hutton recalls the first time she met De Laurentiis, during an on-the-fly interview in the busy kitchen of her restaurant at <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-guide/las-vegas-nevada/hotels/the-cromwell" target="_blank">The Cromwell</a>. The chef’s whirlwind life requires improvisation, though she seems never to let the details get lost.</p><p>That is keenly felt inside Pronto, in the careful curation and delivery of each element. Customers might not notice the juice in their cocktails is pressed to order, or realize their Counter Culture coffee comes from a company committed to single-origin brews and broad sustainability.</p><p>The quality speaks for itself, De Laurentiis says, even if guests are more dazzled by the idea of taste-testing an episode of "Everyday Italian." “If I can deliver a good show, then I feel like people will keep coming back for the good food.”</p>

<p>Yes, we all love to enjoy those <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/african-animal-photos-camera-trap" target="_blank">gorgeous nature photos</a> posted on the internet and plastered in magazines, but for the viewer the moment is fleeting. After just a few seconds or minutes we click away or turn the page. However, for those behind the lens, the work to create that one image can take days, or even weeks to complete.</p><p>Take, for example, these stunning images of Dalmatian pelicans captured by 28-year-old <a href="https://seanweeklyphotography.smugmug.com/" target="_blank">photographer Sean Weekly</a>.</p><img alt="Sean Weekly, 28 with some of the dalmatian Pelicans he photographed on Lake Kerkini in Northern Greece "src="http://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1517944732/pelican-photographs-sean-weekly-PELIPIC0218.jpg?itok=1zb0E4TN"><p>According to Weekly, who hails from Kent, England, he had to brave freezing temperatures while riding on a boat each and every morning for several weeks straight just to shoot the birds as they soared above the snow-capped mountains lining Lake Kerkini in northern Greece.</p><p>"They have some amazing head feathers which gives these birds their own personal hair style,” Weekly told the <i>South West News Service</i> about shooting the enormous animals. "They are so full of personality and character and ultimately are stunningly photogenic."</p><img alt="Dalmatian Pelicans photographed on Lake Kerkini in Northern Greece. "src="http://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1517944732/pelican-photographs-sean-weekly-3-PELIPIC0218.jpg?itok=wq_UHUTh"><p>%image4<br /><br />According to Weekly, both the birds and the surrounding scenery made his job much easier as the “towering snow capped mountains and rolling clouds” created such a spectacular sight.</p><p>“Because of this beautiful environment I tried to include the scenery a lot in my photos of the pelicans to show what an amazing location these birds live in,” he said. "It took me almost the two whole weeks to get this specific image as I wanted all the birds looking at the same direction without any distractions in the image.”</p><p><strong>Related: </strong><a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/photography/professional-photographer-gear" target="_blank">Here’s All the Gear Behind Those Amazing Professional Travel Photos</a></p><p>For Weekly, that meant simply waiting for the right moment to click down on his camera’s shutter.</p><p>Though taking photos like Weekly takes years of practice, there are a few things you can do to improve your shots. Like Weekly, you’ll have to get up early or stay out late to find the perfect light for your images. It’s called the “golden hour” in photography, and it’s usually the hour before and after sunrise and sunset.</p><img alt="Dalmatian Pelicans photographed on Lake Kerkini in Northern Greece. "src="http://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1517944732/pelican-photographs-sean-weekly-2-PELIPIC0218.jpg?itok=koXBvyXi"><img alt="Dalmatian Pelicans photographed on Lake Kerkini in Northern Greece. "src="http://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1517944732/pelican-photographs-sean-weekly-5-PELIPIC0218.jpg?itok=LW9NPEJa"><p>Next, you’re going to have to get as close as possible while remaining safe (and being careful to not disrupt the animal), or buy a great <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/ultimate-travel-essentials/photo-gear" target="_blank">zoom lens</a>.</p><p>Finally, like Weekly, you too will just have to have the patience it takes to wait for the perfect shot. Just look at his pictures for proof that it’s clearly worth it. Check out more <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/animals/animal-photography-tips#otter" target="_blank">tips and tricks for great animal photography here. </a></p>

<p>The cost of renewing your passport is an unfortunate — albeit necessary — price to pay for traveling internationally, but luckily there is a way to make the investment more cost-friendly.</p><p>When you renew your passport at an official passport agency you will find an additional $25 "execution fee" tacked onto your $110 application. This price, according to the <a href="https://www.travelpulse.com/news/impacting-travel/us-passport-execution-fees-to-increase-in-april.html" target="_blank">U.S. Department of State</a>, constitutes the "recovery of the costs to the U.S. government of providing the consular service."</p><p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/how-long-does-it-take-to-renew-a-passport" target="_blank">Why You Should Check Your Passport's Expiration Date Right Now</a></p><p>And this consular service is about to get more expensive. Starting April 2, 2018, the Department of State is increasing the execution fee to $35, <em><a href="https://www.travelpulse.com/news/impacting-travel/us-passport-execution-fees-to-increase-in-april.html" target="_blank">TravelPulse</a></em> reported. As a result, instead of spending $135 to renew your passport at your local post office, you will be required to pay $145.</p><p>Fortunately for the budget traveler, you can bypass the execution fee entirely when you renew your passport by mail.</p><p>If you are <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/apply-renew-passport.html" target="_blank">eligible to renew it using this simple method</a>, all you need to do is fill out a <a href="http://eforms.state.gov/Forms/ds82.pdf" target="_blank">DS-82 form</a> and gather together the rest of your application materials: your current U.S. passport, photo, name change documents (if applicable), and $110 application fee in the form of a personal check or money order. You will then mail everything to the appropriate National Passport Processing Center via the United States Postal Service. You can expect to receive your renewed passport by Priority Mail within four to six weeks. See the <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/apply-renew-passport/renew-by-mail.html" target="_blank">State Department page</a> for full details on submission guidelines.</p><p>Now take that money you saved and buy yourself a <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/style/travel-accessories/best-passport-holders" target="_blank">passport holder</a> to keep your newest and most prized travel document safe.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/winds-help-norwegian-air-break-speed-record">Norwegian Air broke a subsonic speed record</a> last month when a flight from New York City to London arrived in just five hours and 13 minutes — but the airline broke that record just las week, with a flight that arrived in just five hours and nine minutes.</p><p>After catching a particularly powerful jet stream, the aircraft was flying <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-5396531/Norwegian-Dreamliner-sets-transatlantic-speed-record-AGAIN.html">as fast as 799 miles per hour</a>. Like the previous record-breaker, the flight was operated on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, traveling about 23 miles per hour faster than January’s flight.</p><p>As if these record-breaking speeds weren't enough, the pilot on January’s flight revealed that the airplane could have gone even haster “if it had not been for forecasted turbulence at lower altitude.”</p><p>Average travel time for the popular flight across the Atlantic is about five hours and 45 minutes. <a href="https://flightaware.com/live/flight/NAX7014/history/20180208/1620Z/KJFK/EGKK">According to FlightAware</a>, the aircraft left <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/airlines-airports/jfk-airport" target="_blank">New York City's JFK Airport</a> at 11:57 a.m. and arrived at London Gatwick at 10:04 p.m. local time, about one hour ahead of schedule.</p><p>Before this year’s record-breaking flights, the record for fastest transatlantic flight was captured by British Airways in 2015. That flight lasted five hours and 16 minutes.</p><p>According to <a href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/01/180112091209.htm" target="_blank">recent research from the University of Arizona</a>, the North American jet stream has become more intense, with “increased fluctuations” since the 1960s. Although the more extreme winds can help transatlantic flights move faster, it is also linked to more extreme weather in Europe, including heat waves, drought, and wildfires, the study said.</p><p>Of course, all these record-breaking flights pale in comparison to supersonic flight. When the Concorde was in operation, it was possible to fly from <a href="http://travelandleisure.com/travel-guide/new-york-city" target="_blank">New York City</a> to London in less than three hours. The fastest time ever recorded was in 1996 when a British Airways flight took off from New York City and landed in London in just two hours and 53 minutes.</p>

<p>Frequent fliers are familiar with many of the ways your body changes while in a pressurized tube at 40,000 feet: your ears pop, your ability to taste changes, and you may find it <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-tips/why-feet-and-ankles-swell-on-planes" target="_blank">harder to put your shoes back on after a flight</a>.</p><p>There’s a multitude of tricks to combat the last problem (hello, compression socks) but the best advice may be just to keep your shoes on the whole time, according to flight attendants. The reason has less to do with compression and more to do with cleaning.</p><p>“We see people walking from their seats into the bathrooms all the time barefoot and we cringe because those floors are full of germs,” Linda Ferguson, a veteran flight attendant <a href="https://www.rd.com/advice/travel/airplane-travel-mistakes/1/" target="_blank">told <i>Reader’s Digest</i></a>. “Never walk barefoot into the bathroom or the galley area because sometimes we drop glasses and there could be sharp glass there, too."</p><p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-tips/offbeat/bare-feet-on-plane-seat" target="_blank">Traveler Details 'Nightmare' Airplane Encounter With Passenger's Bare Feet</a></p><p>In the cabin, carpets are only spot-cleaned where necessary. When something (food, beverage, stomach juice) is spilled, cleaning crew will eliminate the stain, but <a href="https://www.rd.com/advice/travel/never-shoes-off-on-airplane/" target="_blank">they won’t necessarily disinfect the entire area where germs could have spread</a>.</p><p>Oh, and while we’re discussing germs: <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/germs-airplanes-airports" target="_blank">the tray tables and armrests are filthy</a>. Don’t put your bare feet up on those — <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-tips/offbeat/bare-feet-on-plane-seat" target="_blank">although no passenger should ever do so, out of courtesy to others</a>.</p><p>Airplanes: the more you know, the more a hazmat suit seems like the ideal travel outfit.</p>

<p>The Northern Lights could be making a rare appearance in Michigan and northern Maine tonight.</p><p>Americans can thank a recent solar flare for this potential aurora borealis viewing, <a href="https://www.livescience.com/61776-solar-storm-causes-aurora.html" target="_blank"><em>Live Science</em> reported</a>. On Monday, February 12, an explosion of energy on the sun's surface sent a combination of charged particles and radiation – coronal mass ejections, or CMEs – into the Earth's atmosphere, resulting in a geomagnetic storm over Scotland, Northern Ireland, Canada, and the northern United States.</p><p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/nature-travel/places-to-see-northern-lights-in-us" target="_blank">5 Places in the United States Where You Can Spot the Northern Lights</a></p><p>On Friday, <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-5399405/BBC-forecaster-gives-hilarious-explanation-auroras.html" target="_blank">BBC weather forecaster Matt Taylor</a> succinctly (and humorously) explained how the Northern Lights phenomena is the outcome of CME activity: “The sun gives all of those molecules a little bit of a tickle and they shine different colours of light.”</p><p>In other words, when the CMEs interact with oxygen, the molecules shine green and yellow, and red and purple when they interact with nitrogen.</p><p>Because of the geomagnetic storm, technology could go out of wack tonight, as the<a href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/products/alerts-watches-and-warnings" target="_blank"> National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center</a> is expecting disruptions in the power grid system. However, because the storm is minor, you might run into <a href="https://boingboing.net/2018/02/15/expect-northern-lights-and-pow.html" target="_blank">flickering lights</a>, but not the more <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-5399405/BBC-forecaster-gives-hilarious-explanation-auroras.html" target="_blank">serious disruptions</a> with radio waves, GPS coordinates, and electrical systems than can occur during major solar storms.</p><p>So if you find yourself in Michigan or Maine tonight, head outside and see if you can catch a glimpse of one of nature's most spectacular phenomena. No worries if you miss your chance to see them, though. Cities across Europe and Canada promise gorgeous views of the <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/nature-travel/best-places-to-see-northern-lights-march" target="_blank">Northern Lights this March</a>, and with spring break on the horizon, tonight's event is the perfect incentive to book a trip to see them in the Arctic Circle.</p>

<p>In January, <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/smart-luggage-airline-ban" target="_blank">new smart bag policies</a> went into effect on a number of major airlines. Because lithium-ion batteries have a record of sometimes overheating and exploding, airlines are particularly concerned with keeping them as accessible as possible — and that means away from the cargo hold and removed from suitcases.</p><p>In addition to outright banning luggage with non-removable lithium-ion batteries, airlines now generally require that removable batteries be detached from both checked as well as carry-on suitcases, and kept easily reachable at all times.</p><p>For this reason, travelers need to remove lithium batteries from their smart suitcases prior to boarding.</p><p><a href="http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-travel-briefcase-luggage-battery-20180210-story.html" target="_blank">According to the <em>Los Angeles Times</em></a>, Delta’s policy has been particularly confusing — for both travelers as well as the airline’s flight crew.</p><p>The <em>Los Angeles Times</em> reported that smart luggage brand <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/style/travel-bags/smart-luggage-with-removable-battery#away" target="_blank">Away</a> had recently received complaints from travelers that they were not allowed to stow loose lithium-ion batteries in the overhead compartment during Delta flights.</p><p>In a memo sent to staff, Away co-founder Steph Korey cited incidents involving “hundreds of customers.” But Delta’s detailed policy does not say anything about keeping lithium-ion batteries out of overhead storage bins.</p><p><strong>Related</strong>: <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/style/travel-bags/smart-luggage-with-removable-battery" target="_blank">9 Smart Suitcases That Won't Break Airlines' New Rules</a></p><p>“The primary focus [of the policy],” a Delta spokesperson told <em>Travel + Leisure</em>, “is that the removable battery be made more accessible than if it was kept in its designed enclosure.”</p><p>The spokesperson added that many smart luggage batteries, while removable, might require a specific set of tools to separate the battery from the bag.</p><p>Delta’s <a href="https://www.delta.com/content/www/en_US/traveling-with-us/baggage/before-your-trip/restricted-items.html" target="_blank">lithium battery policy</a>, while requiring that the battery be removed from the bag, also urges travelers to “place each battery in its own protective case, plastic bag, or package” or to “place tape across the battery’s contacts to isolate terminals.”</p><p>Passengers flying with Delta should also be sure that lithium batteries are insulated, and stored far from any other batteries, metal, or flammable objects.</p><p>Travelers should note that Delta's policy is nearly identical to other major domestic carriers, including <a href="https://www.united.com/web/en-US/content/travel/baggage/dangerous.aspx" target="_blank">United</a> and <a href="https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/baggage/restricted-items.jsp" target="_blank">American Airlines</a>.</p><p>To ensure you don't run into any problems while traveling with smart bags (or, you know, your spare lithium-ion batteries) be sure to separate any battery from your suitcase before boarding and clearly insulate it in a plastic bag.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/adventure-travel/dubai-marina-zipline" target="_blank">Dubai</a> has added another gleaming tower to its skyline, though it’s not a commercial center or luxury penthouse — it’s <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/new-hotels-2018" target="_blank">a hotel</a>.</p><p>The Gevora Hotel recently eclipsed the nearby JW Marriott Marquis to earn the title of tallest hotel in the world, standing at 1,168 feet. It opened for business earlier this week, according to local paper <a href="https://www.thenational.ae/uae/high-and-dry-world-s-tallest-hotel-opens-in-dubai-1.704017" target="_blank">the <em>National</em></a>, with prices that travelers should find within reason despite its grand height.</p><p>According to <em><a href="https://www.inverse.com/article/41293-tallest-hotel-opens-in-dubai" target="_blank">Inverse</a></em>, rooms on average will go for somewhere between $163 to $190 a night, compared to an average of $243 at rival <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-guide/dubai/hotels" target="_blank">hotels close by</a>.</p><p>“We are going into the market at a rate slightly lower than the average around this area,” Gevora’s general manager, Jairaj Gorsia, told the <em>National</em>. “The room rates that we will offer is considered very competitive.”</p><p>Amenities include a rooftop pool on the hotel’s 12th floor with sweeping views of downtown Dubai as well as five restaurants, a health club, and a sauna.</p><p>One potential downside travelers should be aware of is that there is no bar. Gevora is a dry hotel, but it has a coffee and cake shop as an alternative.</p><p>“Being non-alcohol licensed hotel is actually an advantage,” Gorsia said. “Families, especially extended families, and kids will enjoy the hotel.”</p><p>All in all, the Gevora features 528 rooms with deluxe and two-bedroom suite options. The hotel has been recognized with four stars.</p><p>"We are very excited to open the doors to Gevora Hotel,” Gorsia said in a statement, <a href="https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/worlds-tallest-hotel-dubai/index.html" target="_blank">according to CNN</a>. “It has been a passion project and finally we are ready to share our vision with the world.”</p><p><em>Travel + Leisure </em>has reached out for comment and more photos and will update when the Gevora responds.</p>

<p>The <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/food-drink/restaurants/lunar-new-year-restaurants" target="_blank">Lunar New Year</a>, which marks the first day on the lunar calendar, is considered <a href="http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_6.jsp?cid=941952" target="_blank">one of the most celebrated</a> of Korea’s national holidays.</p><p>The celebration, which lands on Feb. 16 this year, takes place over the course of three days as families gather together to exchange gifts and dine on local delicacies like tteokguk (a soup made using sliced rice cakes, beef, egg, and vegetables).</p><p>To welcome in the very first sunrise of the occasion, locals often gather at Jeongdongjin Beach, located near <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/winter-olympics-2018-pyeongchang-new-countries" target="_blank">South Korea’s 2018 Winter Olympic Park</a>, to watch the sun illuminate the waters. </p><p>The area has mesmerizing sunsets and sunrises thanks to the fact that it sits on the eastern side of the country, known for its deep blue waters, the Korea Tourism Organization of New York told <em>Travel + Leisure</em>.</p><p><strong>Related: </strong><a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/beach-vacations/a-beach-for-every-day-2018" target="_blank">Here Are 365 Beaches — One for Every Day in 2018</a></p><p>The beach has been growing in popularity for visitors and locals since 1995, when it was used in a Korean series named “Sandglass.”</p><p>The Lunar New Year is now underway across several countries in Asia, with China, Korea, and Vietnam celebrating the momentous holiday. </p>

<p>Despite suffering two devastating hurricanes, the <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-guide/caribbean-bermuda-bahamas" target="_blank">Caribbean</a> welcomed a record 30 million visitors in 2017.</p><p>The islands saw $37 billion in total visitor spending for 2017, up three percent from 2016, according to the report from the Barbados-based <a href="http://www.onecaribbean.org/" target="_blank">Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO)</a>.</p><p>“In short, despite the challenges in 2017, more visitors arrived in the Caribbean and they spent more,” said Hugh Riley, secretary general of the CTO, according to <a href="https://www.travelagentcentral.com/destinations/caribbean-surpasses-30-million-stay-over-visits-2017" target="_blank"><em>Travel Agent Central</em></a>. “Is that enough? Is our work now done? Not by a long way. The Caribbean, with our highly completive tourism products, has quite some distance to go.”</p><p>The numbers varied greatly across the islands, however. St. Lucia saw a double-digit increase in visitors, while other islands' arrivals were down by 20 percent, <a href="https://apnews.com/c71ce088ebca4908a7cc6ab8365dba20" target="_blank">the Associated Press reported</a>.</p><p>Hurricane Maria and Hurricane Irma devastated the region in the fall of 2017, leaving dozens dead and destroying buildings and infrastructure across the islands.</p><p>The economic recovery has varied greatly island to island, with geography and the path of the two storms serving as a strong determining factor. The Bahamas, for instance, survived relatively unscathed and was welcoming visitors back to its shores within weeks of the hurricanes. Puerto Rico saw some of the worst destruction, and some 400,000 people are still without power months after the hurricane.</p><p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/danielle-herrington-sports-illustrated-bahamas" target="_blank">Watch Sports Illustrated Cover Model Danielle Herrington Swim With Pigs in the Bahamas</a></p><p>Many industry experts throughout the Caribbean have called for visitors to return to the region, citing the importance of the tourist dollar in rebuilding.</p><p>“One of the best things you can do is to come to this destination,” Ramon Andrews, Director of the Turks and Caicos Tourist Board, <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-tips/travel-warnings/turks-caicos-hurricane-recovery" target="_blank">told T+L in October</a>. “It’s definitely going to help with the rebuilding efforts.”</p>

<p>For many people, one of the best parts of the Olympics is seeing incredible athletic performances. But for Olympians, one of the best parts of the games has to be sampling the local food.</p><p>And sometimes, even the strangest sounding treats can really surprise you with how delicious they are.</p><p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/winter-olympics-2018-pyeongchang-new-countries" target="_blank">6 Countries That Are Competing in the Winter Olympics for the Very First Time</a></p><p>The Jumunjin Fish Market, for example, in Gangneung, South Korea, has been extra busy since the Olympics rolled in to PyeongChang. And people have not been shy about expressing their love for one of the most popular desserts at the market: squid ink ice cream.</p><p>Ice cream innovation has been wildly popular for the last few years from <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/food-drink/rolled-ice-cream-tacos-los-angeles" target="_blank">rolled taco ice cream</a>, to mountains of unusual toppings, to <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/food-drink/pizza-ice-cream-little-babys" target="_blank">pizza ice cream</a>, to even adding activated charcoal to the icy dessert. Humans are not deterred by anything when it comes to ice cream.</p><p>Squid ink is also quite a popular flavor addition in South Korea, as well as in many other countries. Fast food chains like Burger King and McDonalds even occasionally roll out seasonal promotions for squid ink hamburgers and other menu items.</p><p>American born chef Deuki Hong and food enthusiast Monica Lee visited the market to try out the ice cream found it delicious. Lee said that it actually tasted “more like chocolate.” According to <em><a href="https://www.si.com/eats/2018/02/15/pyeongchang-winter-olympics-korean-food-tour" target="_blank">Sports Illustrated</a></em>, it tastes a little bit like “salted caramel.”</p>

<p>Get a tour of <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/aruba-eco-friendly-hotels-restaurants" target="_blank">Aruba</a> with <em>Sports Illustrated</em>’s Rookie of the Year.</p><p>Alexis Ren, a 21-year-old model from California who has been named the magazine’s favorite newcomer, joined <em>Travel + Leisure</em> to give a special tour of Aruba, where she shot her photos for the magazine’s 2018 edition.</p><p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/danielle-herrington-sports-illustrated-bahamas" target="_blank"><em>Sports Illustrated</em> Cover Model Danielle Herrington Goes Swimming With Pigs in the Bahamas</a></p><p>While she wasn’t working, Ren explored the island, showing off some of the best Aruba has to offer, from the exotic wildlife to the beautiful views, fun activities, and food.</p><p>Among the amazing sights Ren visited were the exotic birds at the <a href="http://www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/aruba/hilton-aruba-caribbean-resort-and-casino-AUAHHHH/index.html" target="_blank">Hilton Resort</a>, where she communed with native parrots, who surprisingly seemed to speak her language.</p><p>Ren also took an ATV down to some natural pools, where she met up with people swimming and diving in the crisp, clear waters. After taking some time to relax and eat, Ren finished off the day with a fun horseback ride.</p><p>Of course, all of these amazing activities aren’t just reserved for <em>Sports Illustrated</em> models. Anyone who visits Aruba can take advantage of all of the awesome things to do there.</p><p>But until you book your flight, Ren can give you plenty of ideas on where to go.</p>

<p>The world’s largest cruise ship is preparing to set sail, even earlier than expected.</p><p>Royal Caribbean’s <a href="https://www.royalcaribbean.com/symphony-of-the-seas" target="_blank"><em>Symphony of the Seas</em></a> cruise ship is nearing completion at its construction site in St. Nazaire, France, <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/cruises/2018/02/14/sneak-peek-inside-royal-caribbeans-symphony-seas-largest-cruise-ship-ever/336211002/" target="_blank"><em>USA Today</em> reported</a>.</p><p>When finished, the megalith ship will weigh more than 230,000 gross registered tons and be able to carry more than 6,000 passengers and 2,000 crew members.</p><p>Royal Caribbean <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/cruises/royal-caribbean-worlds-largest-cruise-ship" target="_blank">announced the development of <em>Symphony of the Seas</em> last year</a>. And although the reveal was laiden with teasers, the cruise line is still unveiling some of the ship’s features.</p><p>The ship’s sheer size is one of its biggest selling points. There will be 28 more cabins on the ship than the current world’s largest ship, including a family-oriented two-level suite, complete with <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/cruises/symphony-of-the-seas-biggest" target="_blank">slides that lead from the bedrooms down to the living room</a>.</p><p>The gigantic ship will be twice as tall as the Washington Monument and have seven “neighborhoods.” Guests can slide down the 10-story Ultimate Abyss (the tallest and most ominously named slide at sea) or visit the largest floating spa and casino. There are more than 20 restaurants onboard, including an Italian sit-down eatery from Jamie Oliver.</p><img alt="Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas "src="http://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1518635331/royal-caribbean-symphony-seas-ship-WORLDLARGEST0218.jpg?itok=vw9OedXm"><p>There’s also an ice-skating rink, laser tag venue, a “central park” with trees and greenery, a bar with drinks made by robots, theatres and <a href="http://creative.rccl.com/Sales/Royal/RCI_Deck_Plans/Deployment_2018_2019/Symphony_Deck_Plans_Reference_Guide_2018_2019.pdf" target="_blank">several other attractions across its 18 decks</a>.</p><p>The ship will embark on its maiden voyage from Barcelona on March 31. It will sail around the Mediterranean until this fall when the ship takes passengers from Miami to the <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/worlds-best/islands-in-caribbean" target="_blank">Caribbean</a>.</p><p>When <em>Symphony of the Seas</em> is put into service, it will take the record for world's largest cruise ship from Royal Carribean's <em>Harmony of the Seas</em>, which accommodates 5,400 passengers and weighs almost 227,000 gross tons.</p>

<p>At 24 years old, Paige Spiranac is a professional <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/golf-vacations" target="_blank">golfer</a>, an outspoken <a href="https://www.cybersmile.org/news/golfing-star-paige-spiranac-announces-new-ambassador-role-with-the-cybersmile-foundation" target="_blank">anti-bullying advocate</a>, a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/_paige.renee/?utm_source=ig_embed" target="_blank">social media star</a>, and now, a <a href="https://www.si.com/swimsuit/model/paige-spiranac" target="_blank"><em>Sports Illustrated Swimsuit</em> model</a>. </p><p>“I’ve been a fan for such a long time and I never thought in my wildest dreams that I would get the opportunity to be a part of the <em>SI Swimsuit</em> family,” she <a href="https://www.si.com/swim-daily/2018/02/06/paige-spiranac-anti-bullying-cybersmile" target="_blank">told </a><em><a href="https://www.si.com/swim-daily/2018/02/06/paige-spiranac-anti-bullying-cybersmile" target="_blank">Sports Illustrated</a></em>. “I get chills every time I think about it.”</p><p>And while the stunning athlete's time shooting for the magazine in Aruba wasn't exactly the <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/beach-vacations/best-aruba-beaches" target="_blank">relaxing beach vacation</a> many visitors to the island experience — some of her dramatic shoot on the island's rough and rocky east coast <a href="https://www.si.com/swimsuit/model/paige-spiranac/2018/photos#1" target="_blank">involved a dirt bike and a whole lot of dust</a> — Spiranac is no stranger to international adventure. Her job has brought her to Dubai, South Korea, and to countless golf destinations across the United States, from her home state of Arizona to Colorado, California, Nevada, and beyond.</p><p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/aruba-eco-friendly-hotels-restaurants" target="_blank">Why Aruba Is the Caribbean Island You Have to Visit in 2018</a></p><p>We sat down at <a href="https://www.tierradelsol.com/en/" target="_blank">Tierra del Sol</a>, a golf resort in Noord, to talk packing hacks; travel tips (especially for anyone whose idea of the perfect vacation includes time on a golf course); and fitness, beauty, and style on the go. </p><h2>T+L: What's the best packing tip you've learned while traveling for work?</h2><p><strong>P.S.:</strong> Don't do what I do. I always wait until the last second because I don't really like to pack. Check the weather, pack a couple days before so if you forget anything you can add it in, and make sure you have the things you wouldn't be able to buy wherever you're going. Pack the essentials and you can buy stuff later if you need to.</p><h2>T+L: What's the one thing you always bring with you, no matter where you're going?</h2><p><strong>P.S.:</strong> Definitely always golf clubs, but otherwise just the basics... I'll always bring workout outfits, <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/style/fashion/best-comfy-travel-jeans-denim" target="_blank">shorts or jeans</a> depending on the weather, a <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/style/fashion/comfy-t-shirts-for-women" target="_blank">t-shirt</a>, a <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/style/cardigans-to-stay-warm-on-the-plane" target="_blank">sweater or jacket</a>, <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/style/best-slip-on-sneakers-for-spring" target="_blank">tennis shoes</a> that I can wear for working out or going out... and I always try to save room for my <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/slideshows/best-travel-beauty-products" target="_blank">hair and makeup stuff</a>.</p><h2>T+L: What's your go-to day-to-night sneaker?</h2><p><b>P.S.: </b>My clothing sponsor, <a href="https://us.descente.com/ourstory/athlete/paige-spiranac" target="_blank">Descente</a>, makes really cool shoes — they look good enough that you can wear them out — they come in really cool funky colors too, so if I'm wearing just a basic outfit I can add a pair of orange shoes to make it fun. </p><h2>T+L: How would you describe your travel uniform? </h2><p><strong>P.S.:</strong> I always get really cold on the plane and I like to be comfortable so I'll always wear <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/style/fashion/stylish-travel-sweatpants" target="_blank">super soft sweats</a> and usually a couple layers: I'll wear an undershirt, a t-shirt, then I'll put a sweater on and I'll bring a jacket as well, which is good too because you can stay warm and also save space in your suitcase.</p><h2>T+L: Do you have an in-flight routine?</h2><p><strong>P.S.:</strong> I always make sure I triple-check everything... my <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/style/travel-bags/best-carry-on-backpacks" target="_blank">backpack</a> is always [filled with] the same stuff every time. For a long flight I'll bring a blanket, then I'll have my wallet, I'll always go get a big bottle of water, and usually <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/best-makeup-wipes-travelers" target="_blank">face wipes</a>.</p><h2>Aisle or window seat?</h2><p><strong>P.S.:</strong> Window. Always window.</p><h2>What do you eat on the plane?</h2><p><strong>P.S.:</strong> I usually try to <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/food-drink/best-healthy-plane-snacks" target="_blank">buy a snack before</a> and eat it in on the plane but if it's a really, really long flight I'll eat the [plane] food. If I'm watching what I'm eating I'll get Quest bars or beef jerky or mixed nuts; if I'm not watching I get gummy bears or chips. </p><h2>T+L: What are the beauty products you can't travel without?</h2><p><strong>P.S.:</strong> On my travel day, I never wear any makeup, it makes me feel better when I land... but face wipes are always really good to have, or a <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/slideshows/best-travel-beauty-products#avène-eau-thermal" target="_blank">hydrating spray</a> just so I always feel hydrated.</p><h2>T+L: What is the best trip you've ever taken?</h2><p><strong>P.S.:</strong> This is probably one of them because I'm excited to be doing what I'm doing and to be in Aruba for the first time. I was also lucky enough to go to Korea... I didn't really know what it was going to be like, it was a completely new experience which was really cool and the food was really great, and it was so clean, and everyone was dressed so well... they had English everywhere so you felt really comfortable, and they were really welcoming.</p><h2>T+L: What are you liking most about Aruba so far?</h2><p><strong>P.S.:</strong> So far <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/beach-vacations/best-aruba-beaches" target="_blank">the beaches are really nice</a> and it seems like there are so many really cool things to do here. It's cool because it kind of reminds me of home... I live in Arizona and there's cacti everywhere, and sand, it's desert; it looks like home yet it's so different and beautiful. </p><h2>T+L: What's the first place you bring someone when they visit you in Arizona?</h2><p><strong>P.S.:</strong> We have so many amazing golf courses so if it's a friend who likes to play golf I'll take them to all the golf courses; Camelback Mountain is a really fun hike. We live by Kierland, which is this little shopping center: they have lights strung everywhere, there's a restaurant we always go to there. And if they come in the winter it's perfect weather so you can still be outside and there's holiday decorations up and it's really fun.</p><p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/hotels-resorts/best-scottsdale-arizona-resorts" target="_blank">5 Great Scottsdale Resorts for Your Trip to Arizona</a></p><h2>T+L: What's the one place you haven't been that you would love to visit?</h2><p><strong>P.S.:</strong> There's a lot of places that I want to go to... I travel around the United States but I haven't really been out of the country that much, so I'd really love to go to Australia and New Zealand. Those are my top two right now.</p><h2>T+L: What's the most beautiful golf course you've ever been to?</h2><p><strong>P.S.:</strong> There are so many different golf courses with different styles... Cherry Hills which is in Colorado is so beautiful yet very different from a course I played in Utah that had lava rock... if you go to Pebble Beach you have the beach, the trees, a little bit of everything... but if I had to choose I'd probably say <a href="http://www.shadowcreek.com/" target="_blank">Shadow Creek in Las Vegas</a>. It's absolutely gorgeous and it's cool because it's so green and it just feels like this oasis... you don't even feel like you're in Vegas anymore.</p><h2>T+L: How do you work out while on vacation?</h2><p><strong>P.S.:</strong> I'll always bring <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/yoga-wellness/best-exercise-equipment-for-travelers" target="_blank">two sizes of bands</a> with me so I can work out in the hotel or use them anywhere. I'll put the smaller band around my legs and then I can do jumping jacks and squats and push-ups, and with the bigger band I can do curls and squats with an arm press... I have a set routine that I do and it's a good full-body workout that you don't need a lot of space for.</p><h2>T+L: You're here in Aruba with your sister, Lexie. Who's the one person you love to travel with most?</h2><p><strong>P.S.:</strong> It's fun to travel with my sister; she usually comes to the more fun events and we always have a really good time. But my fiancé is also always the go-to travel buddy, he's the best person to travel with and he always takes the middle seat so I can lay my head on the window or on him... I like to be really early and he's really laid back, so we balance each other out really well.</p><h2>T+L: Where do you and your fiancé like to travel together?</h2><p><strong>P.S.:</strong> We haven't really gone on a fun vacation just the two of us — everywhere we go usually one of us is working — but we took a trip to Dubai for work and we stayed a couple extra days and he proposed to me there, so that was by far the best trip.</p>

<p>Let me, first, say this: I never envisioned myself writing something on the internet in praise of any sort of natural deodorant.</p><p>It’s not that I’m prejudiced against a chemical-free lifestyle — I've got nothing against washing your hair with honey and brushing your teeth with coconut oil if it makes you feel good — it’s just that this type of hyper-dedication to <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/yoga-wellness" target="_blank">clean living</a> has never really been a concern for me.</p><p>I am vaguely aware that chemicals are bad for you. And I'm sure you've also heard about the studies linking common ingredients in commercial antiperspirants — aluminum chlorohydrate, chloride, zirconium — to a heightened risk for breast cancer and other conditions. But most of those studies are less than conclusive, and the <a href="http://time.com/3922814/deodorant-cancer/" target="_blank">jury is still very much out on the matter</a>. Perhaps it's nihilistic of me, but at this point, it seems exhausting to avoid all chemicals that may or may not kill me in today’s world. </p><p>Yet, here we are. Because a few years ago, upon concluding that it can't be bad to put fewer strange substances on my body, I spontaneously ordered <a data-ecommerce="true" href="http://www.amazon.com/Thai-Deodorant-Stone-Crystal-Deodorant-Ounce/dp/B000AN1JEI?th=1" target="_blank">a crystal deodorant stone from Amazon</a>. And I'm now a low-key crystal deodorant evangelist — not particularly because I think it’s safer, but because I think it’s better than regular deodorant. It's a product that I've taken with me around the world, and it never lets me down. Here’s why I love it: </p><h2>There’s only one ingredient. </h2><p>I know I expressed ambivalence about chemicals earlier, but I have to admit that this is generally a good quality for any item you plan to rub on your body on a daily basis. Especially when this ingredient comes from the literal earth. <a data-ecommerce="true" href="http://www.amazon.com/Thai-Deodorant-Stone-Crystal-Deodorant-Ounce/dp/B000AN1JEI?th=1" target="_blank">My deodorant stone of choice</a> is a crystal of potassium alum, a salt drawn from bauxite ore. There isn’t a ton of scientific research on how this alum behaves differently from the other dreaded aluminum compounds — some claim alum isn’t absorbed into the bloodstream at all; others say there’s almost no difference — but net-net, I prefer this to the laundry list of chemicals that go into a typical antiperspirant. Plus, I find it genuinely cool that my deodorant is a rock.</p><img alt="Thai Crystal Natural Deodorant "src="http://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/thai-crystal0218_1.jpg?itok=GGVGg8py"><h2>I don’t spend money on deodorant anymore.</h2><p>You can get one crystal stick for $5-8 or a four-pack for as little as $20. That’s already pretty comparable to the <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/style/beauty/meghan-markle-drugstore-beauty-favorites" target="_blank">drugstore stuff</a>, and these will last a lot longer. To use a deodorant stone, you wet the crystal and rub it on your clean underarms — basically creating a thin layer of dissolved salt which will neutralize bacteria on the surface. It takes a long time to wear down a crystal in this way. This year, I’ve gone through two and still have a lot of life left in the second... And that’s only because I dropped the first one. Maybe that’s the one downside here: if you drop a crystal, it can shatter into several sharp pieces that are a lot less pleasant to rub on your armpits. </p><h2>If you’re trying to cut down on chemicals, it’s one of the easiest steps you can take. </h2><p>I know it may sound intimidating to jump right into using a deodorant without any fragrances or moisturizers. For those who are, understandably, hesitant to just rub a wet rock on your armpit and call it a day, I suggest easing into it with what many natural wellness communities on the internet call an “armpit detox” — a transitional period that supposedly is helpful in making the sometimes-tumultuous switch after a post-puberty lifetime of chemical antiperspirant use. The idea here is to draw out the lingering chemicals and restore a healthy underarm environment (pH balance, good bacteria... all of that fun stuff). </p><img alt="Sway Detox Natural Deodorant "src="http://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/sway-crystal0218_1.jpg?itok=wpwE6oLw"><p>Start with a <a data-ecommerce="true" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0779LYTVH?m=A3RYBPSNDOM95U" target="_blank">detox kit from Sway</a>, the only product on the market that taps into the many <a href="http://www.health.com/nutrition/apple-cider-vinegar-benefits" target="_blank">beneficial properties of apple cider vinegar</a> — supplemented with ingredients like rosewater, tea tree oil, lemon, and lavender to keep you moisturized and smelling good. The kit also comes with a citrus-scented powder to dust on afterward (my favorite part) which has arrowroot to absorb excess moisture and baking soda to neutralize odor. This can also be a great deodorant routine long-term if you're still not sure about going full-on crystal, but...</p><h2>It actually works. I’m serious.</h2><p>Should any doubters remain, let me just say this one more time: I wouldn’t be writing about this if it didn’t work. And I know a lot of people use and rave about natural deodorants that <em>don’t</em>. But crystals do, provided you use them correctly. The most important factor is applying the crystal to a clean canvas (armpit). If you’re already sweaty, this won’t help — but morning and night applications with the occasional deep scrub-down have kept me feeling fresh without fail. Added bonus: no white deodorant marks on black clothing, ever. </p><p>That being said, it should be noted that crystal deodorant is not an antiperspirant, nor am I a particularly sweaty person (middle-school me would be happy to know this). If you’re looking to stop sweating, this isn’t the product for you. But I have used this deodorant in very, very sweaty situations — 100-degree heat in rural Uzbekistan, the stifling humidity of the Abu Dhabi summer, transatlantic red-eye flights, camping trips, first dates, job interviews — and it has not failed me. It has my skeptic’s stamp of approval, and I'm willing to bet it will earn yours, too. </p><em>You can buy a Thai Deodorant Stone for <a data-ecommerce="true" href="https://www.amazon.com/Thai-Deodorant-Stone-Crystal-Deodorant-Ounce/dp/B000AN1JEI?th=1" target="_blank">$8 on Amazon</a>. Sway's Underarm Detox Starter Kit is <a data-ecommerce="true" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0779LYTVH?m=A3RYBPSNDOM95U " target="_blank">$19.99, also on Amazon</a>. </em>

<p>I'm that girl on the long plane ride that you'll see whipping out an abundant assortment of beauty items: <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/style/beauty/skin-moisturizing-oils-serums" target="_blank">serums</a>, oils, moisturizers, eye creams, a jade roller (someone told me these worked... for something...) and begin applying everything in a falsely precise order as if I am some kind of skincare savant. It would seem, to seatmates and onlookers, that I know exactly what I'm doing. The truth: I don't. I have absolutely no idea what I'm doing.</p><p>I've never been one to read up on the positive effects Chilean tree bark or brown sea algae have on your skin. (Yes, that's a thing.) Fortunately, though, I have inherently good skin. So I've never really paid much attention to the products I use on a regular basis. Traveling, however, always seems to dry out my skin and cause mild breakouts — whether it's from the <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-tips/travel-health-wellness-products#sinus-spray" target="_blank">dry air on my overnight flight</a> or my week spent in a foreign climate — so I like to be prepared with the "proper" regimen to help acclimate my skin to a new environment. </p><p>That's where the experts at Net-A-Porter come in, with an exclusive, <a data-ecommerce="true" href="https://www.net-a-porter.com/us/en/product/1015480/net_a_porter_beauty/the-ultimate-renew-kit" target="_blank">travel-sized beauty kit</a> that's curated the luxury retailer's best-rated skincare products into one no-fuss (TSA-approved) package. </p><p><strong>Related: </strong><a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/style/beauty/best-travel-size-skincare-kits" target="_blank">The Best Travel-sized Beauty Kits for Every Skin Type</a></p><p>"We all know flying dehydrates your skin — the air in the cabin truly removes all moisture — and there are <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/bring-sunscreen-on-flights" target="_blank">high levels of UV when flying</a>, so it is very important to think about your skin, even if just traveling short distance,” said Net-A-Porter’s Beauty Director Newby Hands, explaining why she wanted the Renew kit to help cleanse, hydrate, nourish, and protect skin. “My advice is to clean your skin once you board, load up on hydrating serums and protective antioxidant serums, and seal it with a natural oil or cream. Finally, make sure to continue layering on moisturizing products every few hours.”</p><p>Some favorites from the 12-piece kit include KNC Beauty's 'All Natural Collagen Infused Lip Mask' (a cult-favorite brand among celebs like Kim Kardashian, Emma Stone, and Bella Hadid), Lancer's '<a data-ecommerce="true" href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/us/en/product/582880" target="_blank">The Method Polish</a>' to exfoliate with a brand trusted by Beyoncé and Victoria Beckham, Goldfaden MD's '<a data-ecommerce="true" href="https://www.net-a-porter.com/us/en/product/602609" target="_blank">Bright Eyes</a>' to revitalize and <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-tips/how-to-get-rid-of-puffy-eyes" target="_blank">de-puff the skin around your eyes after long flights</a> or travel days, and Omorovicza's 'Rejuvenating Night Cream' to nourish and strengthen your skin while you sleep.</p><p>Oh, and if you're as curious as I was about Chilean tree bark, try Chantecaille's brightening '<a data-ecommerce="true" href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/us/en/product/597327" target="_blank">Rose de Mai Face Oil</a>'. It really is a game changer.</p><h2>Net-A-Porter Ultimate Renew Kit</h2><img alt="net-a-porter beauty kit "src="http://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1518551567/net-a-porter-beauty-NETKIT0218.jpg?itok=doGD57TM"><p>To buy: <a data-ecommerce="true" href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/us/en/product/1015480/net_a_porter_beauty/the-ultimate-renew-kit" target="_blank">net-a-porter.com</a>, $85</p>

<p><a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-tips/celebrity-travel/anthony-bourdain-self-aware-traveler" target="_blank">Anthony Bourdain</a> kept busy in Louisiana while filming a new episode of his globetrotting show, <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/culture-design/tv-movies/anthony-bourdain-parts-unknown-season-10" target="_blank"><em>Parts Unknown</em></a>.</p><p>The TV personality visited several towns known for their Cajun cuisine and culture and was hosted by a few local restaurants, some of which are likely to appear in the future episode. He also participated in another <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/beach-vacations/best-beaches-in-louisiana" target="_blank">Louisiana</a> activity that one can only hope will make it into the show: drunken chicken chasing.</p><p>A photo posted to his <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BfJ1JZkH0dA/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> Wednesday shows Bourdain in a Southern-Louisiana town called Mamou donning an extravagant costume with the caption “The Quest for Chicken.” According to local <em>ABC</em> affiliate <em><a href="http://www.katc.com/story/37506501/sightings-of-irreverent-intrepid-food-journalist-reported-in-acadiana" target="_blank">KATC</a></em>, the chef was taking part in Mamou's Courir de Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday Run.”</p><p>The Cajun tradition contrasts with <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/mardi-gras-2018-celebrations-outside-new-orleans" target="_blank">the Mardi Gras customs</a> practiced several hours to the east in <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-guide/new-orleans" target="_blank">New Orleans</a>. Rather than receiving gifts, revelers become “beggars,” as<em> </em><a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2015/02/11/385480686/forget-beads-cajun-mardi-gras-means-a-grand-drunken-chicken-chase" target="_blank"><em>NPR</em> reports</a>, and run around town in costumes “dancing, drinking and collecting ingredients for a big pot of gumbo.” A live chicken is one of the most coveted prizes in this quite literal chase.</p><p>Ray Brassieur, a professor of anthropology at the University of Louisiana Lafayette told <em>NPR </em>that hosts sometimes throw the chicken into a crowd from a roof. "Sometimes they give a guinea hen… and those sure can be hard to catch. They run fast, might even fly up in a tree," he added.</p><p>It seems fitting that <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/food-drink/celebrity-chefs/anthony-bourdain-vacation-plans" target="_blank">Bourdain</a> would be in Louisiana on Fat Tuesday, the last day of Mardi Gras to feast before Lent, but fans will have to wait to find out if a chicken chase makes it onto TV when <em>Parts Unknown</em> returns for a new season.</p>